This Is Housing First for Youth: A Program Model Guide

Authors

Gaetz, S.

Type
Guide/Toolkit
Year published
2017
Accession number

25451

Title

This Is Housing First for Youth: A Program Model Guide

Organization

Canadian Observatory on Homelessness

Abstract

This guide provides information about the Housing First for Youth (HF4Y) program model. HF4Y is a rights-based intervention developed in Canada for young people (ages 13 to 24) who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The program is designed to provide immediate access to safe, affordable, and appropriate housing. This guide describes the program’s five core principles: a right to housing without preconditions; youth choice, youth voice, and self-determination; positive youth development and wellness orientation; individualized, client-driven supports with no time limits; and social inclusion and community integration. It also includes sections about service delivery and data management, as well as three program case studies. The guide defines the HF4Y program and philosophy and delineates it from the original Housing First movement that focuses on the adult homeless population. The author outlines the types of housing, called models of accommodation, which are consistent with the HF4Y program framework. In addition, the guide includes the range of supports beyond housing for youth who participate in an HF4Y program. These supports are in the following areas: health, well-being, life skills, employment, education, and socialization.

Availability details

Available for free download on the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness website at: http://homelesshub.ca/sites/default/files/COH-AWH-HF4Y.pdf